Moody AFB Youth Programs receives $1,000 Junk Drawer Robotics grant

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Brigitte N. Brantley
  • 23rd Wing Public Affairs
MOODY AIR FORCE BASE, Ga. --  The Moody Air Force Base School Age Program received a $1,000 grant Dec. 14 to implement a 4-H Junk Drawer Robotics Program for students in fourth to sixth grades.

The program, which will start around Feb. 1 and run for eight to 12 weeks, focuses on the childrens' science skills as they build a fully-functioning robot with everyday materials.

"We got the kids' input on what materials such as wires and batteries we should buy, and the rest will be with plastic bottles and other common things," said Del Philpot, 23rd Force Support Squadron School Age Program assistant. "We hope to spark their interest in science as well as interest in our pre-teen programs."

The goal of the Robotics Program is to encourage "young people to use the processes and approaches of science, the conceptual design of engineering and the application of technology in their personal portfolios of skills and abilities," according to a news release from Melinda Miller, Lowndes County 4-H agent.

Moody Youth Programs had also previously received grants for other special interest groups including photography and gardening.

According to the School Age website, the purpose of these different opportunities is to help youth "develop socially, physically, emotionally and cognitively."

In addition to special interest groups such as Robotics, Youth Programs offers lessons, field trips, academic assistance, leadership development groups, sports leagues and instructional classes.

Anyone who is interested in learning more can call Youth Programs 229-257-3067.